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Pros It’s a fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV) No need to plug it in No waiting for it to charge No emissions other than water No oil changes Three years of complimentary hydrogen Cons Offered only in California and Hawaii (Oahu) Hydrogen stations are hard to find Not as roomy as the Honda Clarity FCEV What’s New this Year? Hybrid battery warranty has been increased to 10 years or 150,000 miles Other than that, the Toyota Mirai is unchanged for 2020. People Also Ask How many seats does the Mirai have seat? The Toyota Mirai is a 4-door sedan with four seats. What is the range of the Toyota Mirai? The 2020 Toyota Mirai has an EPA-estimated range of 312 miles. It takes about five minutes to refuel the Mirai at a hydrogen station. Is there an all-new Mirai coming out soon? An all-new 2021 Toyota Mirai based on a rear-wheel-drive platform comes out late this year. It looks almost identical to the Mirai concept revealed at the 2019 Los Angeles Auto Show. What does the word “Mirai” mean? In Japanese, Mirai means “future,” an appropriate name for this fuel-cell electric vehicle. Where is the Toyota Mirai built? The Toyota Mirai is built at Toyota’s Motomachi plant in Japan. Overview Hybrid cars aren’t the only green alternative, and the 2020 Toyota Mirai proves the feasibility of an electric car powered by hydrogen may be a superior solution to long charging times. Contrary to what you may have heard, the Mirai doesn’t burn hydrogen. It converts it to electricity with the only emission being water. Unfortunately, hydrogen fueling stations are limited to Southern California and Hawaii. There are 40 stations split evenly between Northern California and Southern California, plus one on Oahu. These factors have limited hydrogen fuel-cell cars to a select few. But, if you’re lucky enough to be in the right place, the Mirai, with seating for four, zero emissions, and a range of 312 miles, can be purchased for $58,550 or leased for $389 a month (36-month lease with $2,499 down). Other fuel-cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) to consider are the Honda Clarity Fuel Cell and the Hyundai Nexo, both available only in California. Driving the 2020 Toyota Mirai If you didn’t know hydrogen and oxygen were combining under the driver’s seat (that’s where the fuel cell is stored) to power the 2020 Toyota Mirai’s electric motor, you might easily think you were driving just another electric car. The absence of motor noise takes some getting used to, but the overall driving experience is very much like being behind the wheel of Toyota’s Prius hybrid, which is to say pleasant but not thrilling. Push the button to “start” the Mirai, shift the console lever into Drive and press the accelerator and off you go. As electric motors are pure torque, acceleration is brisk and the 2020 Toyota Mirai’s ride and handling feel very familiar. Also familiar are Toyota mainstays, like the Entune connectivity and slider-based climate controls. A large center-mounted screen displays usage and range, and it’s placed at the base of the windshield as in the Prius. Favorite Features DYNAMIC RADAR CRUISE CONTROL This standard system lets you drive at a constant speed on the highway while maintaining a pre-set distance to the vehicle ahead. Using radar and a front-mounted camera, it functions at speeds from 25 to 110 mph. THE ONBOARD FUEL CELL The fuel cell is an onboard electrical generator. In the Mirai, hydrogen from the onboard tanks combines with oxygen from the air in a chemical reaction to create electricity that powers the vehicle. Better yet, the only byproduct of this reaction is water, which exits the Mirai via a hatch beneath the vehicle. 2020 Toyota Mirai Interior Climbing inside the 2020 Toyota Mirai fuel-cell electric vehicle gives you a sense of déjà vu. That’s because it’s remarkably similar to the company’s Prius line of EVs and plug-in hybrids. The center-mounted display screen dominates the dash, with controls for audio, infotainment, and navigation. Below that is another display, this one with touch-sensitive controls for the ventilation, front and rear defroster, and fan speed. The speedometer and other pertinent information is contained in a narrow display located at the windshield’s base. Seats are firm and supportive, but there’s only room for four people due to a raised center console dividing the rear seats. Legroom is a bit snug in back as well, but four adults can fit comfortably for trips around two hours long. 2020 Toyota Mirai Exterior The futuristic exterior of Toyota’s Mirai is partly stylistic, partly dictated by necessity. The two massive front intakes funnel cool air to the car’s three radiators (fuel cells produce a lot of heat), while the overall shape improves aerodynamics to help cheat the wind. While Toyota says the design theme of the Mirai is flowing water (with a rear-end resembling a catamaran), many people will mistake Toyota’s FCEV for just another Prius Prime. 2020 Toyota Mirai Standard Features The 2020 Toyota Mirai has numerous standard features, many of which are aimed at making hydrogen life easier. Hydrogen fill-ups are free for three years (not to exceed $15,000). Entune connectivity also comes standard, as do three years of Safety Connect (including the hydrogen-station map app). Roadside assistance, which lasts for three years and unlimited miles, also is standard. Beyond that, other standard Mirai fare includes dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, a heated steering wheel, 11-speaker JBL Premium audio with navigation, Smart Key with push-button start, and an 8-way-power driver and passenger seats with driver power lumbar support. LED headlights, along with rain-sensing wipers, adaptive cruise control, pre-collision warning, and emergency braking, a blind-spot monitor, and rear cross-traffic alert, round out the generous list of standard equipment. 2020 Toyota Mirai Options As a highly specialized fuel-cell electric vehicle (FCEV) with a premium price, the 2020 Toyota Mirai has no factory options. Dealers may have some add-ons, though. 2020 Toyota Mirai Powertrain The Toyota Mirai employs an onboard hydrogen fuel cell, a unique device that combines oxygen and hydrogen to create an electric charge. The generated electricity goes to an onboard nickel-metal-hybrid battery and the motor powering the car. The EPA range of the 2020 Toyota Mirai is 312 miles, and it takes about five minutes to refuel the car with hydrogen. FYI: Normal operating pressure inside the two tanks is very high, approximately 10,000 psi. Fuel-cell stack, electric motor 153 horsepower 247 lb-ft of torque EPA city/highway fuel economy: 67 MPGe, 312-mile range How Much Does the 2020 Toyota Mirai cost? You can buy or lease the 2020 Toyota Mirai. It sells for $58,550, plus a destination charge of $955. Or it can be leased for $389 a month (a 36-month lease with $2,499 due at signing). As an FCEV, the Mirai is eligible for a $4,500 rebate from the state of California. Resale information on the Mirai is unavailable, but Toyota’s good reputation bodes well for this pioneering FCEV. Which Model is Right for Me? 2020 Toyota Mirai Dual-zone automatic climate control Heated front and rear seats Premium audio system with Wi-Fi Adaptive cruise control Automatic emergency braking Wireless smartphone charging Two USB ports 2020 Toyota Mirai Safety Technology Toyota Safety Sense 2.0 This standard safety suite includes automatic emergency braking (with pedestrian and cyclist detection), a lane-departure alert, adaptive cruise control, and Road Sign Assist, which uses a forward-facing camera to detect speed limit signs and stop signs. These signs then get displayed prominently on the Mirai’s multi-information display. Eight airbags The Mirai seats four people, and it has eight standard airbags. These include driver and passenger front airbags and seat-mounted side airbags, plus a driver’s knee airbag, a seat-cushion airbag for the front passenger, and a head-protection curtain airbag on each side of the cabin. Collision sensors In the event of an accident, special sensors onboard the Toyota Mirai immediately disconnect the high-voltage battery and automatically close the valves for the hydrogen tanks.

Americans have flocked to beaches and lakes for Memorial Day weekend, often flouting restrictions imposed to tackle the coronavirus outbreak. In Florida, state police dispersed an unauthorised gathering of hundreds of people in Daytona Beach on Saturday. In Missouri, bars at the Lake of the Ozarks were packed with revellers, who violated social-distancing rules. US coronavirus task force chief Dr Deborah Birx said she was "very concerned" after seeing such scenes. "We really want to be clear all the time that social distancing is absolutely critical. And if you can't social distance and you're outside, you must wear a mask," Dr Birx said on ABC's This Week on Sunday. Lyda Krewson, the mayor of St Louis, Missouri, said: "It's irresponsible and dangerous to engage in such high risk behaviour just to have some fun over the extended holiday weekend. "Now, these folks will be going home to S. Louis and counties across Missouri and the Midwest, raising concerns about the potential of more positive cases, hospitalisations, and tragically, deaths. Deeply disturbing." In Florida's Tampa area, the crowds were so big that authorities closed parking lots because they were full, the Associated Press reports. In California, big crowds were seen enjoying beaches over the weekend. State officials said most people were covering their faces and keeping their distance on beaches and parks. On Monday, US Vice-President Mike Pence said that some people "would do well to be reminded about the importance of social distancing and the importance of continuing regular hygiene". However, he added: "We have every confidence that as restrictions are loosened in the days ahead, the American people are going to step forward and put this country back to work in a safe and responsible way." Memorial Day - an annual holiday held on the last Monday of May - honours all those who have died serving in the US military. It marks the unofficial start of summer. The US has more coronavirus cases than anywhere in the world. It has over 1.6 million known infections and is nearing 100,000 deaths linked to the virus. All 50 US states have now partially reopened after a two-month shutdown. However, remaining restrictions vary across the country. Wide discrepancies also remain between states in terms of infection rates and the pace of their economic restart. Some of the hardest-hit areas, including New York, New Jersey and Washington state are now showing the sharpest declines, while majority of states have reached plateaus.

The trial of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on corruption charges has opened in Jerusalem, days after he began a new term in office. Mr Netanyahu, 70, is the first standing leader to face trial in the country's history. He denies accusations of bribery, fraud and breach of trust. Arrived at the courthouse for a brief hearing, he said the cases were aimed at "toppling him in any way possible". He was sworn back into office as head of a rare unity government a week ago. His political rival, Benny Gantz, agreed to share power following three inconclusive elections in under a year. He has rejected calls by opponents to step down while he fights the cases. The leader of the right-wing Likud party is Israel's longest-serving prime minister, having been in power continuously since 2009. He also served a term in office from 1996-1999. What happened at the court? As he arrived at the Jerusalem District Court on Sunday, he told reporters: "I'm here with a straight back and my head held high." "When you need to take me down, a strong prime minister from the right, everything is possible," he added. At the start of the hearing, which lasted about an hour, Mr Netanyahu told the judges: "I read and I understand the indictment." He stood in a face mask and refused to sit down on the defendants' bench until the reporters left the room, local media say. His lawyers say they need several months to prepare their defence. The date for the next hearing has been set for 19 July. What is Benjamin Netanyahu accused of? Mr Netanyahu has been indicted in three cases, known as 1,000, 2,000 and 4,000: Case 1,000 - Fraud and breach of trust: he is accused of receiving gifts - mainly cigars and bottles of champagne - from powerful businessmen in exchange for favours Case 2,000 - Fraud and breach of trust: Mr Netanyahu is accused of offering to help improve the circulation of Israeli newspaper Yediot Ahronot in exchange for positive coverage Case 4,000 - Bribery, fraud and breach of trust: as PM and minister of communications at the time of the alleged offence, Mr Netanyahu is accused of promoting regulatory decisions favourable to the controlling shareholder in the Bezeq telecom giant, Shaul Elovitch, in exchange for positive coverage by Mr Elovitch's Walla news site Mr Netanyahu has strongly denied all the charges against him, branding them a "witch-hunt" by political opponents, and has vowed to clear his name. How can the prime minister serve and stand trial at the same time? According to Israeli law, a leader charged with a crime is not required to resign. But there is no precedent. A former prime minister, Ehud Olmert, stepped down as party leader when he was under investigation for corruption in 2008 but technically remained prime minister until elections the following year - polls which brought Benjamin Netanyahu to power. Under the power-sharing deal with Benny Gantz, a new role of "alternate prime minister" was created, which means when the two men switch positions in 18 months' time, Mr Netanyahu will still occupy a prime ministerial office and stay on as Mr Gantz's deputy. What does the trial mean for the country? In short, a serving prime minister occupying the most powerful office in the land simultaneously trying to clear his name and avoid jail-time. Opposition leader Yair Lapid called it "an embarrassment" and "horrible for the spirit of the nation" though it is not expected to affect government policy. Mr Netanyahu is still likely to press ahead with plans to annex Jewish settlements and the Jordan Valley - territory in the occupied West Bank - in the coming months, a move certain to infuriate the Palestinians. Opinion in Israel as to whether he should carry on as prime minister is split: critics say the spectacle of a trial makes Mr Netanyahu's job untenable, but his supporters - including his party - say he has been democratically elected and should not be forced out. Even if he is convicted, Mr Netanyahu will not be required to resign unless and until any appeals are exhausted - which could, in theory, be many months or years into the future. In Ehud Olmert's case, the former prime minister went on trial in 2009 and after he was convicted only began serving his sentence in 2016 due to the long legal process.

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Democratic White House candidate Joe Biden is in damage limitation mode after saying African Americans "ain't black" if they even consider voting for President Donald Trump over him. Gaffe-prone Mr Biden made the remark in an interview on Friday with a prominent black radio host, Charlamagne Tha God, about his outreach to black voters. Mr Biden later expressed regret for the "cavalier" comment. The black vote has been key to the Biden candidacy. What exactly did Biden say? Throughout the 18-minute interview, Mr Biden, 77, stressed his longstanding ties to the black community, noting his overwhelming win this year in South Carolina's presidential primary, a state where the Democratic electorate is more than 60% African American. "I won every single county. I won the largest share of the black vote that anybody had, including Barack," he said of President Barack Obama, the country's first African-American president, who picked Mr Biden as his running mate. The presumptive nominee for November's election also "guaranteed" that several black women were being considered to serve as his vice-president. He has already committed to selecting a woman to join him on the Democratic ticket. Toward the end of the interview, a campaign aide interrupted to say the former vice-president was out of time. When an aide for Mr Biden tried to end the interview, Charlamagne protested, saying: "You can't do that to black media." "I do that to white media and black media," Mr Biden replied, adding that his wife was waiting to use their home broadcast studio. Charlamagne urged Mr Biden to return for another interview, saying he had more questions. "If you have a problem figuring out whether you're for me or Trump, then you ain't black," Mr Biden responded. Charlamagne's nationally syndicated Breakfast Club show reaches more than 8 million listeners each month. Biden trips an electrical live wire Joe Biden just touched a live electrical wire of racial identity in US politics. Until now his support among black voters has been rock-solid, and there's little chance Friday's line will do much by itself to dent that. The Trump campaign will be happy, however, if they can chip away even a sliver of Mr Biden's support, particularly in key electoral states like Wisconsin and Michigan, where black voter apathy hurt Democrats in 2016. Mr Biden's gaffe came at the end of an interview, as he was being pressed on whether he favoured Minnesota Senator Amy Klobuchar over a black woman as his running mate. That he responded with indignation - and then veered dangerously off-script - suggests his preference might lie with someone like Ms Klobuchar, who shares Mr Biden's pragmatic political sensibilities. If Friday's kerfuffle has staying power, however, he might feel compelled to pick a black female candidate like Kamala Harris or Stacey Abrams - if only to clean up the mess he created. How is the Biden camp trying to contain the damage? Biden campaign adviser Symone Sanders defended the comments on Friday, saying they were made "in jest". "Let's be clear about what the VP was saying: he was making the distinction that he would put his record with the African American community up against Trump's any day. Period." Mr Biden scrambled to make amends on a call later to black business leaders. "I should not have been so cavalier," he said. "I've never, never, ever taken the African American community for granted." He added: "I shouldn't have been such a wise guy." He continued: "No-one should have to vote for any party based on their race, their religion, their background." What's the reaction? The Trump campaign seized on the remarks, which senior campaign adviser Katrina Pierson described as "racist and dehumanising". "He truly believes that he, a 77-year-old white man, should dictate how black people should behave," she said. Her comment was echoed by Senator Tim Scott, a black Republican. "That is the most arrogant, condescending comment I've heard in a very long time," he told on Fox News. "He's saying that 1.3 million African Americans, that you're not black? Who in the heck does he think he is?" the South Carolina lawmaker said, referring to the black Americans who voted for Mr Trump in 2016. Mr Biden's words also provoked criticism from his side of the aisle. Keith Boykin, a former aide to Democratic President Bill Clinton, tweeted: "Yes, Biden is a much better choice for black people than racist Trump. "But white people don't get to tell black people what is black. Biden still has to EARN our vote." Derrick Johnson, president of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP), told CBS News that Mr Biden could not "take the African-American vote for granted". One disappointed black voter's response went viral. Why is Biden po[CENSORED]r among black voters? America knows Joe Biden as the vice-president to the first black president in history. Mr Obama endorsed him last month, saying in a video that Mr Biden "has all the qualities we need in a president right now". A Quinnipiac University poll released this week showed Mr Biden's support among black voters at a stunning 81%, compared with 3% for Mr Trump. The remainder said they didn't know. What's the latest with the sex assault claim against Biden? A former Senate aide who accuses Mr Biden of sexual assault has been dropped as a client by a prominent lawyer who has represented several #MeToo cases. Tara Reade says Mr Biden attacked her in a Senate hallway in 1993. On Thursday, attorney Douglas Wigdor said his office's decision was no reflection on Ms Reade's credibility, and he accused the media of trying to victim-shame her. It came as questions were raised about Ms Reade's past. A spokesperson for Antioch University in Seattle told the New York Times that she did not receive a degree from the university, though she had listed one on her CV. She also claimed to have been a legislative assistant to Mr Biden. But she was actually a staff assistant - a more junior role. However, Seattle University confirmed to Politico that Ms Reade did have a law degree from there. Lawyers in legal cases in which she testified as an expert witness on domestic violence are reportedly now seeking to reopen them on the grounds that her credentials could have been faked.

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Pros Standard active-safety systems Towing capacity up to 3,500 pounds Optional 252-horsepower engine Standard Apple CarPlay/Android Auto Roomy rear seat Cons Less cargo room than Honda, Toyota and VW rivals No hybrid option Adaptive cruise control reserved for the highest trim What’s New this Year? The 2021 Chevrolet Equinox carries over unchanged 2022 Equinox already announced with more features People Also Ask Is the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox a good car? The Equinox falls somewhere in the middle of the compact SUV pack. It has less space and fewer standard features than rivals like the Honda CR-V, and Toyota RAV4. Is the 4-cylinder 2021 Chevrolet Equinox underpowered? The standard 170-horsepower 1.5-liter is adequate for ordinary needs. If you want appreciable power, look to the optional 252-horsepower 2.0-liter turbo-4. Is Chevy discontinuing the Equinox? Chevrolet has made no such announcement. In fact, it has already announced the forthcoming 2022 Equinox will get freshened looks and more features. How well does the Chevrolet Equinox hold its value? The Equinox has only average resale value, trailing leaders like the Subaru Forester, Honda CR-V, and Toyota RAV4. Overview The 2021 Equinox is Chevrolet’s compact crossover SUV. It competes in one of the hottest segments against a dozen rivals including the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Ford Escape. The Equinox’s roughly $24,000 starting price is among the lowest, which helps make this Chevy a po[CENSORED]r seller. The Chevrolet Equinox comes with modern tech like Apple CarPlay/Android Auto integration and active safety systems like automatic emergency braking. A choice of two turbocharged engines provides either competent or eager acceleration, along with a towing capacity of up to 3,500 pounds. Unfortunately, the turbodiesel that attained up to 39 mpg left the lineup last year. The Equinox is a comfortable, roomy, and competent 2-row/5-passenger crossover SUV with an appealing price. But in its cutthroat segment, competitors are bringing more to the table. The CR-V and RAV4, for example, include more active safety and driver-assistance systems, and each also is available as a hybrid. Chevrolet has already announced that the forthcoming 2022 Equinox will add features to help it remain competitive. Driving the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox The majority of Equinox models use a 1.5-liter turbocharged 4-cylinder engine. That size might sound small, but it’s par for the course these days, and like others, it puts out surprising power. Its 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque translate to a decent job moving this SUV, and the engine pairs well with the standard 6-speed automatic transmission. If you want a considerably quicker and more exciting experience, you’ll need to step up to an LT or Premier trim. Both offer a larger and more powerful engine as an option. That 2.0-liter 4-cylinder outpowers most competitors with its 252 horsepower and 260 lb-ft of torque. This setup uses a 9-speed automatic transmission. If you do opt for the 2.0-liter engine, we recommend getting all-wheel drive (AWD). Otherwise, this engine and the standard front-wheel drive (FWD) suffers from torque steer. This is experienced as a tugging on the steering wheel under full acceleration. Whichever power plant you choose, we found the Equinox’s ride on the softer and more comfortable side. Cornering is acceptable but not as athletic as that of a Mazda CX-5. If you’re more inclined to heed the call of the wild, a Subaru Forester or Jeep Cherokee are better suited to off-pavement excursions. The Equinox’s diesel engine is not available for the 2021 model year. If you’re among the few drivers seeking a diesel-powered small SUV, look to the Mazda CX-5. The Jeep Cherokee, meanwhile, is the remaining small mainstream SUV that still offers a V6 engine. One gripe we have with the Equinox is the inability to disable its engine start/stop system, which cuts power at idle. The refreshed and forthcoming 2022 Chevy Equinox is adding a button to disable this feature, as is the case in rivals. Favorite Features STANDARD SAFETY SYSTEMS Last year the Chevy Equinox finally caught up to the competition with its suite of standard active-safety features. Now included are automatic emergency braking, forward-collision alert, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist, plus IntelliBeam automatic headlights. 2.0-LITER TURBOCHARGED ENGINE In addition to enabling zippy acceleration and more passing power, this optional engine will appeal to those who want to tow with their Equinox. This power plant enables the Equinox to pull up to 3,500 pounds, among the most in its class. 2021 Chevrolet Equinox Interior The Chevrolet Equinox has a useful and roomy 5-passenger cabin. The front seats are supportive and comfortable enough for long trips. A 7- or 8-inch touchscreen display sits in the center of the dash. Controls for common functions like fan speed, temperature, and audio are simple to use. Most Equinox models have basic cloth seating, but you can spruce it up with leather in the top-line Premier trim. The 2nd-row bench has a recline feature and legroom is generous. The Equinox has good cargo capacity, if not the best in its class. With the rear seats folded you get 63.9 cubic feet of storage. That compares to 75.8 in the Honda CR-V or 73.5 in the Volkswagen Tiguan. The VW Tiguan is also among the few small SUVs that offer a third row. We do like the Equinox’s sub-floor in the rear cargo for securing and hiding smaller objects and keeping them out of sight. 2021 Chevrolet Equinox Exterior Our eyes think the Chevrolet Equinox’s design is fresh enough to look good now and conservative enough to hold up in the future. At just over 183 inches long, the Equinox crossover SUV is large enough to have presence and small enough to easily fit in parking spaces and garages. Available roof rails add utility and bolder SUV looks. A power liftgate with programmable height is available on higher trims. Deep tinted glass is available starting on the LS trim. Various packages add elements like a chrome grille surround and 19-inch wheels, or a more aggressive black-out treatment. Models with the 2.0-liter turbo engine stand apart with dual-exhaust outlets. 2021 Chevrolet Equinox Standard Features The 2021 Chevy Equinox is available in four trims: L, LS, LT, and Premier. The least expensive Equinox L comes with a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine, keyless entry, and push-button start, an infotainment system with 7-inch display, Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, four USB ports, 17-inch wheels, and the Teen Driver system that can set parameters and relay information on driving habits. Other highlights include General Motors’ OnStar telematics system and a subscription-based 4G LTE connectivity with Wi-Fi. Standard safety features include forward-collision warning with automatic emergency braking, lane-departure warning, and lane-keeping assist The LS trim adds the ability to get all-wheel drive and includes a compact spare tire and floor mats, and opens the door for more options. 2021 Chevrolet Equinox Options The more recommendable Equinox LT includes an 8-way power driver’s seat, tinted windows, high-intensity headlights, a color driver-information screen, and SiriusXM satellite radio. The LT trim also is available with the higher-powered engine. The topline Equinox Premier includes blind-spot monitoring, a hands-free power liftgate, leather interior, 8-inch touchscreen with a high-def rearview camera, dual-zone climate control, heated front seats, fog lights, 18-inch wheels, chrome exterior accents, heated exterior mirrors, LED headlights and taillights, and rear parking sensors. If you want adaptive cruise control, which comes standard on rivals like the Honda CR-V and Toyota RAV4, you’ll have to get the most expensive Equinox Premier, then pay extra for it as an option. Other options include ventilated front seats, navigation, Bose audio, a panoramic sunroof, and a rear-seat entertainment system. 2021 Chevrolet Equinox Engine Two 4-cylinder engines are available in the 2021 Chevy Equinox. With each, front-wheel drive (FWD) comes standard and all-wheel drive (AWD) is optional for better traction. Standard is a 1.5-liter turbocharged engine with 170 horsepower and 203 lb-ft of torque. That’s enough oomph for most tasks, and is rated to tow 1,500 pounds. Optional on LT and Premier models is a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine with 252 horsepower/260 lb-ft of torque that makes the Equinox feel quite a bit quicker. It is rated to tow up to 3,500 pounds. The 1.5-liter engine uses a 6-speed automatic transmission, while the 2.0-liter turbo has a 9-speed automatic. All Equinox models have an idle start/stop system that cuts engine power at idle, such as at stoplights. Restarts can be annoying, and unlike in other vehicles, the system can’t be deactivated. A button to disable this is among the updates for the forthcoming 2022 Equinox. 1.5-liter turbocharged inline-4 170 horsepower @ 5,600 rpm 203 lb-ft of torque @ 2,000-4,000 rpm EPA city/highway fuel economy: 26/31 mpg (FWD), 25/30 mpg (AWD) 2.0-liter turbocharged inline-4 252 horsepower @ 5,500 rpm 260 lb-ft of torque @ 2,500-4,500 rpm EPA city/highway fuel economy: 22/29 mpg (FWD), 22/28 mpg (AWD) How Much Does the 2021 Chevrolet Equinox Cost? The 2021 Chevrolet Equinox has a Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) starting at $23,800 plus a $1,195 destination fee for a front-wheel-drive base L model. Most buyers will be better off in an LS or LT, starting at $26,300 and $27,500, respectively. Equinox Premier models begin at $31,400. All-wheel drive is an extra $1,600 and requires the LS trim or higher. A loaded Equinox can top $40,000. At its base price, the Equinox undercuts better-equipped rivals like the Honda CR-V, Toyota RAV4, and Subaru Forester. It’s closer in line with the Kia Sportage and Hyundai Tucson. Before buying your new compact SUV, check the KBB.com Fair Purchase Price to see what people in your area are paying. The Chevy Equinox’s resale value is about average, trailing leaders like the Honda CR-V and Subaru Forester. Which Model is Right for Me? 2021 Chevrolet Equinox L 1.5-liter turbocharged engine Keyless open and push-button start 7-inch touchscreen Apple CarPlay/Android Auto 17-inch wheels 2021 Chevrolet Equinox LS Compact spare tire Floor mats Optional all-wheel drive Options packages 2021 Chevrolet Equinox LT 8-way power driver’s seat High-intensity headlights Tinted windows SiriusXM radio Optional 2.0-liter turbocharged engine 2021 Chevrolet Equinox Premier Leather interior with heated front seats Blind-spot monitoring Hands-free power liftgate 8-inch touchscreen Dual-zone climate control 2021 Chevrolet Equinox Safety Technology Forward-collision warning w/ automatic emergency braking Standard on all 2021 Equinox models, this system warns of a potential frontal collision, and if necessary, can apply the brakes to prevent or lessen a crash. Lane-keeping assist This system can automatically help keep the Equinox from drifting over lane markings. Blind-spot monitoring Optional the LT trim and standard on the Premier, this can warn of other vehicles in the Equinox’s left-rear or right-rear blind spots.

China's ruling Communist Party has set in motion a controversial national security law for Hong Kong, a move seen as a major blow to the city's freedoms. The law to ban "treason, secession, sedition and subversion" could bypass Hong Kong's lawmakers. Critics say China is breaking its promise to allow Hong Kong freedoms not seen elsewhere in China. It is likely to fuel public anger and may even trigger fresh protests and demands for democratic reform. The plan was submitted at the annual National People's Congress, which largely rubber-stamps decisions already taken by the Communist leadership, but is still the most important political event of the year. Hong Kong was always meant to have introduced such laws after its handover to Chinese rule in 1997. It never could and after last year's wave of sustained and violent protest, Beijing is now attempting to push them through. Beijing believes "law-based and forceful measures" must be taken to "prevent, stop and punish" such protests in the future. What is in Beijing's proposed law? The "draft decision" - as it is known before approval by the NPC - was explained by Wang Chen, vice chairman of the Standing Committee of the NPC. It consists of an introduction and seven articles. Article 4 may prove the most controversial. That article says Hong Kong "must improve" national security, before adding: "When needed, relevant national security organs of the Central People's Government will set up agencies in Hong Kong to fulfil relevant duties to safeguard national security in accordance with the law." China could essentially place this law into Annex III of the Basic Law, which covers national laws that must be implemented in Hong Kong - either by legislation, or decree. China's Premier Li Keqiang addressed the congress and spoke of the economic impact of the coronavirus, On Hong Kong (and also Macau) he made this reference: "We will establish sound legal systems and enforcement mechanisms for safeguarding national security in the two Special Administrative Regions What do opponents say the dangers are? Hong Kong is what is known as a "special administrative region" of China. It has observed a "one country, two systems" policy since Britain returned sovereignty in 1997, which has allowed it certain freedoms the rest of China does not have. Pro-democracy activists fear that China pushing through the law could mean "the end of Hong Kong" - that is, the effective end of its autonomy and these freedoms. Last year's mass protests in Hong Kong were sparked by a bill that would have allowed extraditions to mainland China. The bill was paused, then withdrawn - but the protests continued until the virus outbreak at the end of the year. The US has also weighed in, with President Trump saying the US would react strongly if it went through - without giving details. It is currently considering whether to extend Hong Kong's preferential trading and investment privileges. Why is China doing this? Mr Wang said the security risks had become "increasingly notable" - a reference to last year's protests. "Considering Hong Kong's situation at present, efforts must be made at the state-level to establish and improve the legal system and enforcement mechanisms," he is quoted as saying in state media. Beijing may also fear September's elections to Hong Kong's legislature. If last year's success for pro-democracy parties in district elections is repeated, government bills could potentially be blocked. What is Hong Kong's legal situation? Hong Kong was under British control for more than 150 years up to 1997. The British and Chinese governments signed a treaty - the Sino-British Joint Declaration - that agreed Hong Kong would have "a high degree of autonomy, except in foreign and defence affairs", for 50 years. This was enshrined in the Basic Law, which runs out in 2047. As a result, Hong Kong's own legal system, borders, and rights - including freedom of assembly and free speech - are protected. But Beijing has the ability to veto any changes to the political system and has, for example, ruled out direct election of the chief executive.

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US Democrats have launched an investigation into President Donald Trump's firing of the state department's internal watchdog. Inspector General Steve Linick was investigating Secretary of State Mike Pompeo for suspected abuse of office, reports say. But he was sacked late on Friday after Mr Trump said he no longer commanded his full confidence. The move prompted angry criticism from senior Democrats in Congress. They accused Mr Trump of retaliating against public servants who want to hold his administration to account. Mr Linick was the third official responsible for monitoring government misconduct to be dismissed in recent weeks. The former prosecutor was appointed by Mr Trump's predecessor, Barack Obama, to oversee spending and detect mismanagement at the state department. On Saturday, top Democrats on the House and Senate Foreign Relations Committees questioned the timing of Mr Linick's removal and announced an immediate investigation. "We unalterably oppose the politically-motivated firing of inspectors general and the president's gutting of these critical positions," Congressman Eliot Engel and Senator Bob Menendez said in a statement. They said Mr Linick had "opened an investigation into wrongdoing by Secretary Pompeo himself", adding that his firing was "transparently designed to protect Secretary Pompeo from personal accountability". Mr Linick had begun investigating allegations that Mr Pompeo had improperly used staff to run personal errands, US media report. Mr Engel and Mr Menendez have requested that the White House and State Department hand over all records related to his dismissal by next Friday. Meanwhile, on Saturday, the White House said the decision to oust Mr Linick was prompted by Mr Pompeo himself. "Secretary Pompeo recommended the move, and President Trump agreed," an official said. What happened on Friday? Mr Trump sent a letter to House Speaker Nancy Pelosi in which he declared his intention to fire Mr Linick. Under federal law, the Trump administration must give Congress 30 days' notice of its plans to fire an inspector general. It is expected that Mr Linick will leave his post after this time, with some reports suggesting a political ally of Mr Trump is being lined up to replace him. "It is vital that I have the fullest confidence in the appointees serving as inspectors general. That is no longer the case with regard to this inspector general," Mr Trump said in the letter. Not long after Mr Linick's dismissal was announced, Mr Engel, the chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, said Mr Linick had opened an investigation into Mr Pompeo. "Mr Linick's firing amid such a probe strongly suggests that this is an unlawful act of retaliation," he said in a statement. House Speaker Nancy Pelosi said Mr Linick was "punished for honourably performing his duty to protect the constitution and our national security".

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Drinking one or more sweetened beverages in a day has been found to be associated with about 20 per cent increase in risk of cardiovascular disease in women. As per the study, sugary beverages are defined as caloric soft drinks, sweetened bottled waters or teas and sugar-added fruit drinks. Published in the Journal of the American Heart Association, the California-based research also found that drinking one or more sugary beverage was linked to 26 per cent higher likelihood of needing a revascularisation procedure such as angioplasty to open clogged arteries, and a 21 per cent of higher likelihood of having a stroke in women, as compared to those who rarely or never drink these beverages. Again, drinking sodas daily was found to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease overall by 23 per cent, compared to those who rarely or never drank sugary beverages. Drinking sugar-added fruit drinks was found to increase the risk of cardiovascular disease by 42 per cent. “Although the study is observational and does not prove cause and effect, we hypothesise that sugar may increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases in several ways. It raises glucose levels and insulin concentrations in the blood, which may increase appetite and lead to obesity, a major risk factor for cardiovascular disease,” lead study author Cheryl Andersonprofessor and interim chair of Family and Public Health, University of California San Diego, and chair of the American Heart Association’s Nutrition Committee, said in a statement. “In addition, too much sugar in the blood is associated with oxidative stress and inflammation, insulin resistance, unhealthy cholesterol profiles and type 2 diabetes, conditions that are strongly linked to the development of atherosclerosis, the slow narrowing of the arteries that underlies most cardiovascular disease,” the author added. The American Heart Association recommends limiting added sugar to no more than 100 calories a day (about 6 teaspoons) for most women, and no more than 150 calories (9 teaspoons) for most men.

EV sedan to take on Tesla Model 3 78 kWh battery promises 275-mile EPA range 408 horsepower and 487 lb-ft of torque 0-62 mph acceleration of less than 5 seconds Priced from $59,900 Deliveries begin this summer Polestar, the EV and performance division of Volvo, launches its 2021 Polestar 2 model, a midsize 5-door liftback for sale in North America, China, and select European markets this summer. The new electric car targets a 275-mile EPA range with its 78-kWh lithium-ion battery and touts sub-5-second 0-62 mph acceleration. The total output of 408 horsepower and 487 lb-ft of torque from its dual electric motors drive all four wheels. How much will the 2021 Polestar 2 cost? The 2021 Polestar 2 starts at $59,900. The new pricing is just over $3,000 less than the original price tag. The new price takes into consideration thresholds for individual state rebates. By coming in under $60,000, the Polestar 2 remains eligible for local incentives of about $2,000. Added to the federal tax credit of $7,500, potential savings amount to $10,000. “We are quite enthusiastic to announce the U.S. pricing for the Polestar 2,” said Gregor Hembrough, Head of Polestar USA. “The MSRP is lower than we originally targeted, and will be extended to all of our current reservation holders. “With an online purchase option, lower pricing, considerable tax incentives, and production already underway, the Polestar 2 is well-positioned for a successful entry into the U.S. market.” The Volvo connection Polestar 2 rides on Volvo’s Compact Modular Architecture platform which has a 27-cell battery pack in the floor. As Volvo’s performance unit, Polestar offers a $5,000 Performance Pack upgrade. This package includes Öhlins dampers and Brembo brakes. Other Polestar touches feature the division’s signature gold seat belts and brake calipers. Unique 20-inch wheels are a $1,200 option, as is a choice of a metallic paint scheme, which also costs $1,200 extra. The look of the Polestar 2 is clean, with strong character lines that carry Volvo’s expression of Scandinavian luxury. Headlamp units bisected by LED daytime running lights flank the horizontal grille. The sculpted body surfaces, C-pillar, and rear taillamp treatment share some Volvo cues. Inside, the cabin has a clean modern design with traditional instruments in front of the driver. An 11.0-inch vertical touchscreen sits in the center of the dash. Infotainment uses an Android operating system that features Google Maps, Google Assistant, and Google Play. There’s a gearshift lever in the center console and a sport steering wheel with integrated controls. The cabin boasts vegan-based upholstery for the seating, door inserts, and other surfaces. The 2021 Polestar 2 also boasts Phone-as-Key technology. This setup allows car-sharing and connected services that include pick-up and delivery of the vehicle for service. Where does the company build Polestar 2? The 2020 Polestar 2 production is in China for global export.